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Ambulance service raising funds to buy new vehicle

With an absence of major agenda items, the Kenmare City Council wrapped up its business in a brief half-hour meeting Monday evening.

3/13/13 (Wed)

By Terry Froseth

With an absence of major agenda items, the Kenmare City Council wrapped up its business in a brief half-hour meeting Monday evening.

The meeting was conducted by alderman Todd Ankenbauer, in the absence of the mayor and the council president.

Alderman Paul Christian Standard informed the council of the Kenmare Ambulance’s plans to purchase a new ambulance.

Standard said the oldest of the two ambulances, a 1995 model, will be replaced.

The price for a new four wheel drive, adequately equipped ambulance is $190,000.

It takes about seven months for delivery of a new ambulance after the order is placed.

Standard said some communities in the region have spent around $250,000 for a new ambulance.

The organization has put together $100,000 in requests, and is asking $40,000 from the city, Standard said.

After a review of the balance in the city sales tax health care fund, the council approved a $30,000 grant.

It was also stated Kenmare Ambulance could return with a request for additional funds, if needed.

Bobcat bidJust one bid was received for the city’s 2011 S630 Bobcat skid steer.

Bill Novak submitted a bid of $28,006.

The bid was rejected by the council. The Bobcat will be advertised for sale on bids again for another month.

Engineer’s reportA written report from Ackerman-Estvold Engineering was presented to the council members.

It stated the city is still awaiting word on the success of its application for Community Development Block Grant funds.

The grant would be used towards improvements, including lighting and sidewalks, surrounding the downtown business square.

The report stated the primary intent of the grant will be help for flood damaged areas. However, ready to go projects, such as Kenmare’s, will also be given consideration.

Ackerman-Estvold remains optimistic Kenmare will be awarded funds through the grant programs.

In other action:

• Jan Kostad presented the financial report.

• Liquor license transfer was approved for City Limits Bar to the Memorial Hall for the Dollars for Scholars banquet on April 6, and for the Hanson-Gartner wedding on May 11.

• A beer/wine license transfer was approved for M&K Pizza Hub to the Memorial Hall of the Kenmare Country Club Fun Night this Friday, March 15.

• Newly hired building inspector Don Siebert reported he has attended a class in Minot by the North Dakota Building Officials group.

• Siebert reminded the council a public hearing will be held Wednesday, March 13 at 6:00 pm at city hall regarding the special use permit for Minnesota Limited to place temporary office trailers at the former Gooseneck Implement location.

• A big water break in front of the Kenmare Community Hospital has been fixed.

• Council member commended the city crew on the difficult job of keeping the streets clear during the last snow storm.

• The council approved keeping the April monthly meeting time at 7:00 pm, rather than changing back to the traditional 8:00 pm meeting time.

There was discussion in favor of moving the meeting time permanently to 8:00 pm, but no action was taken.